2 Kings 23:4

2 Kings 23:4 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

Then the king commanded Hilkiah the high priest, the priests second in rank, and the doorkeepers to remove from the temple of the LORD all the articles made for Baal, Asherah, and all the host of heaven. And he burned them outside Jerusalem in the fields of Kidron and carried their ashes to Bethel.

King James Version KJV

And the king commanded Hilkiah the high priest, and the priests of the second order, and the keepers of the door, to bring forth out of the temple of the LORD all the vessels that were made for Baal, and for the grove, and for all the host of heaven: and he burned them without Jerusalem in the fields of Kidron, and carried the ashes of them unto Beth-el.

American Standard Version ASV

And the king commanded Hilkiah the high priest, and the priests of the second order, and the keepers of the threshold, to bring forth out of the temple of Jehovah all the vessels that were made for Baal, and for the Asherah, and for all the host of heaven, and he burned them without Jerusalem in the fields of the Kidron, and carried the ashes of them unto Beth-el.

Bible in Basic English BBE

Then the king gave orders to Hilkiah, the chief priest, and to the priests of the second order, and to the keepers of the door, to take out of the house of the Lord all the vessels made for Baal and for the Asherah and for all the stars of heaven; and he had them burned outside Jerusalem in the fields of Kidron, and took the dust of them to Beth-el.

Free Bible Version FBV

Then the king ordered Hilkiah the high priest, the priests of second rank, and the doorkeepers to remove from the Lord's Temple everything made for Baal, Asherah, and the worship of sun, moon, and stars. He burned them outside Jerusalem in the Kidron fields and took their ashes to Bethel.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

Then the King commanded Hilkiah the hie Priest and the priests of the second order, and the keepers of the doore, to bring out of ye Temple of the Lord all the vessels that were made for Baal, and for the groue, and for all the hoste of heauen, and he burnt them without Ierusalem in the fieldes of Kedron, and caryed the pouder of them into Beth-el.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And the king commandeth Hilkiah the high priest, and the priests of the second order, and the keepers of the threshold, to bring out from the temple of Jehovah all the vessels that are made for Baal, and for the shrine, and for all the host of the heavens, and he burneth them at the outside of Jerusalem, in the fields of Kidron, and hath borne their ashes to Beth-El.

World English Bible WEB

The king commanded Hilkiah the high priest, and the priests of the second order, and the keepers of the threshold, to bring out of the LORD’s temple all the vessels that were made for Baal, for the Asherah, and for all the army of the sky; and he burned them outside of Jerusalem in the fields of the Kidron, and carried their ashes to Bethel.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And the king commanded Helcias the high priest, and the priests of the second order, and the doorkeepers, to cast out of the temple of the Lord all the vessels that had been made for Baal, and for the grove, and for all the host of heaven: and he burnt them without Jerusalem in the valley of Cedron, and he carried the ashes of them to Bethel.

Translation for Translators T4T

Then the king commanded Hilkiah the Supreme Priest and all the other priests who assisted him and the men who guarded the entrance to the temple to bring out from the temple all the items that people had been using to worship Baal, the goddess Asherah, and the stars. After they carried them out, they burned all those things outside the city near the Kidron Valley. Then they took all the ashes to Bethel, because that city was already considered to be desecrated/unholy.

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Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Kings 23:4

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

2 Kings 23:4 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יְצַ֣ו הַ/מֶּ֡לֶךְ אֶת חִלְקִיָּהוּ֩ הַ/כֹּהֵ֨ן הַ/גָּד֜וֹל וְ/אֶת כֹּהֲנֵ֣י הַ/מִּשְׁנֶה֮ וְ/אֶת שֹׁמְרֵ֣י הַ/סַּף֒ לְ/הוֹצִיא֙ מֵ/הֵיכַ֣ל יְהוָ֔ה אֵ֣ת כָּל הַ/כֵּלִ֗ים הָֽ/עֲשׂוּיִם֙ לַ/בַּ֣עַל וְ/לָֽ/אֲשֵׁרָ֔ה וּ/לְ/כֹ֖ל צְבָ֣א הַ/שָּׁמָ֑יִם וַֽ/יִּשְׂרְפֵ֞/ם מִ/ח֤וּץ לִ/ירוּשָׁלִַ֨ם֙ בְּ/שַׁדְמ֣וֹת קִדְר֔וֹן וְ/נָשָׂ֥א אֶת עֲפָרָ֖/ם בֵּֽית אֵֽל

וַ/יְצַ֣ו tsâvâh H6680 to command Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3ms

הַ/מֶּ֡לֶךְ melek H4428 King's Art | N-ms

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

חִלְקִיָּהוּ֩ Chilqîyâh H2518 Hilkiah N-proper

הַ/כֹּהֵ֨ן kôhên H3548 priest Art | N-ms

הַ/גָּד֜וֹל gâdôwl H1419 Great (Sea) Art | Adj

וְ/אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. Conj | DirObjM

כֹּהֲנֵ֣י kôhên H3548 priest N-mp

הַ/מִּשְׁנֶה֮ mishneh H4932 second Art | N-ms

וְ/אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. Conj | DirObjM

שֹׁמְרֵ֣י shâmar H8104 to keep V-Qal

הַ/סַּף֒ çaph H5592 basin Art | N-ms

לְ/הוֹצִיא֙ yâtsâʼ H3318 to come out Prep | V-Hiphil-Inf-a

מֵ/הֵיכַ֣ל hêykâl H1964 temple Prep | N-ms

יְהוָ֔ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 The Lord N-proper

אֵ֣ת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

כָּל kôl H3605 all N-ms

הַ/כֵּלִ֗ים kᵉlîy H3627 article/utensil Art | N-mp

הָֽ/עֲשׂוּיִם֙ ʻâsâh H6213 to make Art | V-Qal-Inf-c

לַ/בַּ֣עַל Baʻal H1168 Baal Prep | N-proper

וְ/לָֽ/אֲשֵׁרָ֔ה ʼăshêrâh H842 Asherah Conj | Prep | N-proper

וּ/לְ/כֹ֖ל kôl H3605 all Conj | Prep | N-ms

צְבָ֣א tsâbâʼ H6635 army N-cs

הַ/שָּׁמָ֑יִם shâmayim H8064 heaven Art | N-mp

וַֽ/יִּשְׂרְפֵ֞/ם sâraph H8313 to burn Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms | Suff

מִ/ח֤וּץ chûwts H2351 outside Prep | N-ms

לִ/ירוּשָׁלִַ֨ם֙ Yᵉrûwshâlaim H3389 Jerusalem Prep | N-proper

בְּ/שַׁדְמ֣וֹת shᵉdêmâh H7709 field Prep | N-fp

קִדְר֔וֹן Qidrôwn H6939 Kidron N-proper

וְ/נָשָׂ֥א nâsâʼ H5375 to lift Conj | V-Qal-Perf-3ms

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

עֲפָרָ֖/ם ʻâphâr H6083 dust N-ms | Suff

בֵּֽית Bêyth-ʼÊl H1008 Bethel N-proper

אֵֽל Bêyth-ʼÊl H1008 Bethel N-proper

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Kings 23:4

וַ/יְצַ֣ו tsâvâh H6680 "to command" Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3ms

To command or give orders, as seen in the Bible when God gives charge to his people. It can also mean to appoint or ordain someone for a task. This word is used in various forms throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: 1) to command, charge, give orders, lay charge, give charge to, order 1a)(Piel) 1a1) to lay charge upon 1a2) to give charge to, give command to 1a3) to give charge unto 1a4) to give charge over, appoint 1a5) to give charge, command 1a6) to charge, command 1a7) to charge, commission 1a8) to command, appoint, ordain (of divine act) 1b) (Pual) to be commanded

Usage: Occurs in 475 OT verses. KJV: appoint, (for-) bid, (give a) charge, (give a, give in, send with) command(-er, -ment), send a messenger, put, (set) in order. See also: Genesis 2:16; Leviticus 10:13; Deuteronomy 12:11.

הַ/מֶּ֡לֶךְ melek H4428 "King's" Art | N-ms

This word refers to a king or royal person, like King David or King Saul. It can also describe something related to a king, like the King's Valley in Genesis. The Bible often uses this word to talk about the rulers of Israel.

Definition: King's (Valley) (Gen.14.17)

Usage: Occurs in 1919 OT verses. KJV: king, royal. See also: Genesis 14:1; Joshua 10:39; 1 Samuel 16:1.

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

חִלְקִיָּהוּ֩ Chilqîyâh H2518 "Hilkiah" N-proper

Hilkiah was a significant Israelite with several roles, including high priest during Josiah's reign and father of Jeremiah. His name means my portion is Jehovah, reflecting his devotion to God.

Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, only mentioned at Jer.1.1; brother of: Shallum (H7967R); father of: Jeremiah (H3414L) § Hilkiah = "my portion is Jehovah" 1) father of Eliakim, an officer of Hezekiah 2) high priest in the reign of Josiah 3) a Merarite Levite, son of Amzi 4) another Merarite Levite, 2nd son of Hosah 5) one of those who stood on the right of Ezra when he read the law and probably a Levite and a priest 6) a priest of Anathoth, father of the prophet Jeremiah 7) father of Gemariah who was one of Zedekiah's envoys to Babylon

Usage: Occurs in 31 OT verses. KJV: Hillkiah. See also: 2 Kings 18:18; 2 Chronicles 34:14; Isaiah 22:20.

הַ/כֹּהֵ֨ן kôhên H3548 "priest" Art | N-ms

In the Bible, a priest is a person who serves God and leads others in worship, like the Levitical priests in Exodus. They were responsible for making sacrifices and following God's laws. This term is also used to describe Jesus as a priest-king.

Definition: 1) priest, principal officer or chief ruler 1a) priest-king (Melchizedek, Messiah) 1b) pagan priests 1c) priests of Jehovah 1d) Levitical priests 1e) Zadokite priests 1f) Aaronic priests 1g) the high priest Aramaic equivalent: ka.hen (כָּהֵן "priest" H3549)

Usage: Occurs in 653 OT verses. KJV: chief ruler, [idiom] own, priest, prince, principal officer. See also: Genesis 14:18; Leviticus 13:33; Numbers 17:2.

הַ/גָּד֜וֹל gâdôwl H1419 "Great (Sea)" Art | Adj

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means something or someone great, whether in size, age, or importance. It appears in descriptions of the Great Sea and the Philistines. The word is used to convey a sense of magnitude or grandeur.

Definition: adj great Also named: pe.lish.ti (פְּלִשְׁתִּי "(Sea of the )Philistines" H6430I)

Usage: Occurs in 499 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] aloud, elder(-est), [phrase] exceeding(-ly), [phrase] far, (man of) great (man, matter, thing,-er,-ness), high, long, loud, mighty, more, much, noble, proud thing, [idiom] sore, ([idiom]) very. See also: Genesis 1:16; Joshua 7:26; 1 Kings 20:13.

וְ/אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." Conj | DirObjM

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

כֹּהֲנֵ֣י kôhên H3548 "priest" N-mp

Usage: Occurs in 653 OT verses. KJV: chief ruler, [idiom] own, priest, prince, principal officer. See also: Genesis 14:18; Leviticus 13:33; Numbers 17:2.

הַ/מִּשְׁנֶה֮ mishneh H4932 "second" Art | N-ms

Mishneh means a second or duplicate, like a copy of a document, or something that is double in amount, also referring to a second in order or rank, like a secondary position or a copy of a law.

Definition: 1) double, copy, second, repetition 1a) double 1b) copy (of law) 1c) second (in order) 1c1) second rank 1c2) second in age 1d) second quarter or district

Usage: Occurs in 34 OT verses. KJV: college, copy, double, fatlings, next, second (order), twice as much. See also: Genesis 41:43; 1 Chronicles 15:18; Isaiah 61:7.

וְ/אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." Conj | DirObjM

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

שֹׁמְרֵ֣י shâmar H8104 "to keep" V-Qal

To keep or obey means to protect, attend to, or guard something, like keeping a promise or watching over someone, as seen in the commands to observe the Sabbath.

Definition: : obey/observe 1) to keep, guard, observe, give heed 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to keep, have charge of 1a2) to keep, guard, keep watch and ward, protect, save life 1a2a) watch, watchman (participle) 1a3) to watch for, wait for 1a4) to watch, observe 1a5) to keep, retain, treasure up (in memory) 1a6) to keep (within bounds), restrain 1a7) to observe, celebrate, keep (sabbath or covenant or commands), perform (vow) 1a8) to keep, preserve, protect 1a9) to keep, reserve 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be on one's guard, take heed, take care, beware 1b2) to keep oneself, refrain, abstain 1b3) to be kept, be guarded 1c) (Piel) to keep, pay heed 1d) (Hithpael) to keep oneself from

Usage: Occurs in 440 OT verses. KJV: beward, be circumspect, take heed (to self), keep(-er, self), mark, look narrowly, observe, preserve, regard, reserve, save (self), sure, (that lay) wait (for), watch(-man). See also: Genesis 2:15; Deuteronomy 11:1; 1 Kings 14:8.

הַ/סַּף֒ çaph H5592 "basin" Art | N-ms

This word refers to a threshold, like a door sill, or a container for holding liquids. It can also mean a gate or post. The KJV translates it as threshold or bason.

Definition: 1) a spreading out, basin, goblet, bowl 1a) basin, goblet

Usage: Occurs in 28 OT verses. KJV: bason, bowl, cup, door (post), gate, post, threshold. See also: Exodus 12:22; 2 Chronicles 34:9; Isaiah 6:4.

לְ/הוֹצִיא֙ yâtsâʼ H3318 "to come out" Prep | V-Hiphil-Inf-a

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to go out or come out, and it's used in many different ways, like leaving a place or starting a new journey, as seen in Genesis and Exodus.

Definition: : come/go_out/escape 1) to go out, come out, exit, go forth 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go or come out or forth, depart 1a2) to go forth (to a place) 1a3) to go forward, proceed to (to or toward something) 1a4) to come or go forth (with purpose or for result) 1a5) to come out of 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to cause to go or come out, bring out, lead out 1b2) to bring out of 1b3) to lead out 1b4) to deliver 1c) (Hophal) to be brought out or forth

Usage: Occurs in 991 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, appear, [idiom] assuredly, bear out, [idiom] begotten, break out, bring forth (out, up), carry out, come (abroad, out, thereat, without), [phrase] be condemned, depart(-ing, -ure), draw forth, in the end, escape, exact, fail, fall (out), fetch forth (out), get away (forth, hence, out), (able to, cause to, let) go abroad (forth, on, out), going out, grow, have forth (out), issue out, lay (lie) out, lead out, pluck out, proceed, pull out, put away, be risen, [idiom] scarce, send with commandment, shoot forth, spread, spring out, stand out, [idiom] still, [idiom] surely, take forth (out), at any time, [idiom] to (and fro), utter. See also: Genesis 1:12; Exodus 9:33; Leviticus 26:45.

מֵ/הֵיכַ֣ל hêykâl H1964 "temple" Prep | N-ms

The Hebrew word for a large public building like a palace or temple, used to describe God's temple in Jerusalem. It appears in the Bible to talk about the temple as God's palace. In the Bible, it is translated as 'palace' or 'temple'.

Definition: : temple 1) palace, temple, nave, sanctuary 1a) palace 1b) temple (palace of God as king) 1c) hall, nave (of Ezekiel's temple) 1d) temple (of heavenly temple)

Usage: Occurs in 76 OT verses. KJV: palace, temple. See also: 1 Samuel 1:9; Psalms 138:2; Psalms 5:8.

יְהוָ֔ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 "The Lord" N-proper

Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)

Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.

אֵ֣ת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

כָּל kôl H3605 "all" N-ms

The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.

Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)

Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.

הַ/כֵּלִ֗ים kᵉlîy H3627 "article/utensil" Art | N-mp

This Hebrew word refers to any object or tool, like a utensil or a piece of furniture. It is used to describe a wide range of items, from musical instruments to weapons. It emphasizes the object's purpose or function.

Definition: 1) article, vessel, implement, utensil 1a) article, object (general) 1b) utensil, implement, apparatus, vessel 1b1) implement (of hunting or war) 1b2) implement (of music) 1b3) implement, tool (of labour) 1b4) equipment, yoke (of oxen) 1b5) utensils, furniture 1c) vessel, receptacle (general) 1d) vessels (boats) of paper-reed

Usage: Occurs in 276 OT verses. KJV: armour(-bearer), artillery, bag, carriage, [phrase] furnish, furniture, instrument, jewel, that is made of, [idiom] one from another, that which pertaineth, pot, [phrase] psaltery, sack, stuff, thing, tool, vessel, ware, weapon, [phrase] whatsoever. See also: Genesis 24:53; 1 Samuel 14:13; Ezra 8:26.

הָֽ/עֲשׂוּיִם֙ ʻâsâh H6213 "to make" Art | V-Qal-Inf-c

This verb means to make or do something, and is used over 2,600 times in the Bible. It is first used in Genesis 1:7 to describe God's creation of the world and is also used in Exodus 31:5 to describe the work of skilled craftsmen.

Definition: : make(OBJECT) 1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to do, work, make, produce 1a1a) to do 1a1b) to work 1a1c) to deal (with) 1a1d) to act, act with effect, effect 1a2) to make 1a2a) to make 1a2b) to produce 1a2c) to prepare 1a2d) to make (an offering) 1a2e) to attend to, put in order 1a2f) to observe, celebrate 1a2g) to acquire (property) 1a2h) to appoint, ordain, institute 1a2i) to bring about 1a2j) to use 1a2k) to spend, pass 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be done 1b2) to be made 1b3) to be produced 1b4) to be offered 1b5) to be observed 1b6) to be used 1c) (Pual) to be made

Usage: Occurs in 2286 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, advance, appoint, apt, be at, become, bear, bestow, bring forth, bruise, be busy, [idiom] certainly, have the charge of, commit, deal (with), deck, [phrase] displease, do, (ready) dress(-ed), (put in) execute(-ion), exercise, fashion, [phrase] feast, (fight-) ing man, [phrase] finish, fit, fly, follow, fulfill, furnish, gather, get, go about, govern, grant, great, [phrase] hinder, hold (a feast), [idiom] indeed, [phrase] be industrious, [phrase] journey, keep, labour, maintain, make, be meet, observe, be occupied, offer, [phrase] officer, pare, bring (come) to pass, perform, pracise, prepare, procure, provide, put, requite, [idiom] sacrifice, serve, set, shew, [idiom] sin, spend, [idiom] surely, take, [idiom] thoroughly, trim, [idiom] very, [phrase] vex, be (warr-) ior, work(-man), yield, use. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 34:19; Exodus 18:24.

לַ/בַּ֣עַל Baʻal H1168 "Baal" Prep | N-proper

Refers to the Phoenician deity Baal, mentioned in the books of Numbers and Judges as a false god.

Definition: § Baal = "lord" esp. lord, specif. as divine name, Baal supreme male divinity of the Phoenicians or Canaanites

Usage: Occurs in 68 OT verses. KJV: Baal, (plural) Baalim. See also: Judges 2:11; 2 Kings 10:28; Jeremiah 2:8.

וְ/לָֽ/אֲשֵׁרָ֔ה ʼăshêrâh H842 "Asherah" Conj | Prep | N-proper

Asherah was a goddess worshipped by the Canaanites and Phoenicians, often represented by a tree or pole near an altar. The Bible warns against worshipping her, as in Deuteronomy and Judges. She was considered a consort of Baal.

Definition: § Ashera(h) = "groves (for idol worship)" a Babylonian (Astarte)-Canaanite goddess (of fortune and happiness), the supposed consort of Baal, her images her images sacred trees or poles set up near an altar

Usage: Occurs in 40 OT verses. KJV: grove. Compare H6253 (עַשְׁתֹּרֶת). See also: Exodus 34:13; 2 Kings 23:4; Isaiah 17:8.

וּ/לְ/כֹ֖ל kôl H3605 "all" Conj | Prep | N-ms

Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)

צְבָ֣א tsâbâʼ H6635 "army" N-cs

This Hebrew word means a large group of people or things, often referring to an army or a campaign, and is also used to describe the Lord's hosts. It appears in the Bible as a name for God, emphasizing His power and authority. In the KJV, it's translated as 'host' or 'army'.

Definition: : army 1) that which goes forth, army, war, warfare, host 1a) army, host 1a1) host (of organised army) 1a2) host (of angels) 1a3) of sun, moon, and stars 1a4) of whole creation 1b) war, warfare, service, go out to war 1c) service

Usage: Occurs in 463 OT verses. KJV: appointed time, ([phrase]) army, ([phrase]) battle, company, host, service, soldiers, waiting upon, war(-fare). See also: Genesis 2:1; 1 Samuel 17:55; Psalms 24:10.

הַ/שָּׁמָ֑יִם shâmayim H8064 "heaven" Art | N-mp

The Hebrew word for heaven or sky, it refers to the visible universe and the abode of God. It is often used in the Bible to describe the dwelling place of celestial bodies.

Definition: 1) heaven, heavens, sky 1a) visible heavens, sky 1a1) as abode of the stars 1a2) as the visible universe, the sky, atmosphere, etc 1b) Heaven (as the abode of God) Aramaic equivalent: sha.ma.yin (שָׁמַ֫יִן "heaven" H8065)

Usage: Occurs in 395 OT verses. KJV: air, [idiom] astrologer, heaven(-s). See also: Genesis 1:1; 1 Samuel 2:10; Job 28:21.

וַֽ/יִּשְׂרְפֵ֞/ם sâraph H8313 "to burn" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms | Suff

This Hebrew word means to set something on fire, and is used in the Bible to describe burning or kindling flames, like in Psalm 83:14. It can also mean to utterly destroy something. The word is related to fire and burning, and is used in various forms throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: 1) to burn 1a) (Qal) to burn 1b) (Niphal) to be burned 1c) (Piel) burner, burning (participle) 1d) (Pual) to be burnt up, be burned Also means: sa.raph (סָרַף "to burn" H5635)

Usage: Occurs in 107 OT verses. KJV: (cause to, make a) burn((-ing), up) kindle, [idiom] utterly. See also: Genesis 11:3; 1 Kings 13:2; Psalms 46:10.

מִ/ח֤וּץ chûwts H2351 "outside" Prep | N-ms

This word means outside or outdoors, referring to something beyond a wall or boundary. It can also mean a street or highway, as seen in various KJV translations, including abroad, field, and without.

Definition: outside, outward, street, the outside

Usage: Occurs in 158 OT verses. KJV: abroad, field, forth, highway, more, out(-side, -ward), street, without. See also: Genesis 6:14; 2 Chronicles 24:8; Psalms 18:43.

לִ/ירוּשָׁלִַ֨ם֙ Yᵉrûwshâlaim H3389 "Jerusalem" Prep | N-proper

Jerusalem is the capital city of Palestine, also known as the city of peace. It was the chief city of the united kingdom and the nation of Judah after the split.

Definition: § Jerusalem = "teaching of peace" the chief city of Palestine and capital of the united kingdom and the nation of Judah after the split

Usage: Occurs in 600 OT verses. KJV: Jerusalem. See also: Joshua 10:1; 2 Kings 22:14; 2 Chronicles 24:6.

בְּ/שַׁדְמ֣וֹת shᵉdêmâh H7709 "field" Prep | N-fp

Shedemah means a cultivated field, and it can also refer to a field that has been blasted or destroyed. This word is used in the Bible to describe agricultural land and its condition.

Definition: field Also means: she.re.mah (שְׁרֵמָה "field" H8309)

Usage: Occurs in 6 OT verses. KJV: blasted, field. See also: Deuteronomy 32:32; Isaiah 37:27; Isaiah 16:8.

קִדְר֔וֹן Qidrôwn H6939 "Kidron" N-proper

The Kidron is a brook near Jerusalem, and its name means dark. It's mentioned in the Bible as a significant location near the city of Jerusalem.

Definition: § Kidron = "dark" a stream east of Jerusalem

Usage: Occurs in 10 OT verses. KJV: Kidron. See also: 2 Samuel 15:23; 2 Kings 23:12; Jeremiah 31:40.

וְ/נָשָׂ֥א nâsâʼ H5375 "to lift" Conj | V-Qal-Perf-3ms

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to lift or raise something, and it's used in many ways, like lifting a burden or raising someone's status. It appears in books like Genesis and Isaiah, often talking about God lifting people up. It's about supporting or carrying something or someone.

Definition: : raise/take_up 1) to lift, bear up, carry, take 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to lift, lift up 1a2) to bear, carry, support, sustain, endure 1a3) to take, take away, carry off, forgive 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be lifted up, be exalted 1b2) to lift oneself up, rise up 1b3) to be borne, be carried 1b4) to be taken away, be carried off, be swept away 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to lift up, exalt, support, aid, assist 1c2) to desire, long (fig.) 1c3) to carry, bear continuously 1c4) to take, take away 1d) (Hithpael) to lift oneself up, exalt oneself 1e) (Hiphil) 1e1) to cause one to bear (iniquity) 1e2) to cause to bring, have brought

Usage: Occurs in 609 OT verses. KJV: accept, advance, arise, (able to, (armor), suffer to) bear(-er, up), bring (forth), burn, carry (away), cast, contain, desire, ease, exact, exalt (self), extol, fetch, forgive, furnish, further, give, go on, help, high, hold up, honorable ([phrase] man), lade, lay, lift (self) up, lofty, marry, magnify, [idiom] needs, obtain, pardon, raise (up), receive, regard, respect, set (up), spare, stir up, [phrase] swear, take (away, up), [idiom] utterly, wear, yield. See also: Genesis 4:13; Numbers 4:2; 1 Samuel 14:3.

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

עֲפָרָ֖/ם ʻâphâr H6083 "dust" N-ms | Suff

Aphar means dust or dry earth, and is also used to describe clay, earth, or mortar. It appears in various forms throughout the Bible.

Definition: 1) dry earth, dust, powder, ashes, earth, ground, mortar, rubbish 1a) dry or loose earth 1b) debris 1c) mortar 1d) ore

Usage: Occurs in 103 OT verses. KJV: ashes, dust, earth, ground, morter, powder, rubbish. See also: Genesis 2:7; Job 28:6; Psalms 7:6.

בֵּֽית Bêyth-ʼÊl H1008 "Bethel" N-proper

Bethel, meaning house of God, is a significant location in the Bible, particularly in the book of Genesis. It was a place of worship and sacrifice, where Jacob had a vision of a ladder reaching to heaven. The name Bethel signifies its importance as a spiritual site, where God was believed to dwell.

Definition: § Bethel = "house of God" a place in south country of Judah

Usage: Occurs in 65 OT verses. KJV: Beth-el. See also: Genesis 12:8; 1 Samuel 30:27; Jeremiah 48:13.

אֵֽל Bêyth-ʼÊl H1008 "Bethel" N-proper

Definition: § Bethel = "house of God" a place in south country of Judah

Usage: Occurs in 65 OT verses. KJV: Beth-el. See also: Genesis 12:8; 1 Samuel 30:27; Jeremiah 48:13.

Study Notes — 2 Kings 23:4

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
2 Kings 23:4 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 2 Kings 23:4
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Kings 23:4
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Kings 23:4
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Kings 23:4
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Kings 23:4
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Kings 23:4
Cambridge Bible on 2 Kings 23:4
Barnes' Notes on 2 Kings 23:4
Whedon's Commentary on 2 Kings 23:4
Sermons on 2 Kings 23:4

Context — Josiah Destroys Idolatry

2And he went up to the house of the LORD with all the people of Judah and Jerusalem, as well as the priests and the prophets—all the people small and great—and in their hearing he read all the words of the Book of the Covenant that had been found in the house of the LORD. 3So the king stood by the pillar and made a covenant before the LORD to follow the LORD and to keep His commandments, decrees, and statutes with all his heart and all his soul, and to carry out the words of the covenant that were written in this book. And all the people entered into the covenant.

4Then the king commanded Hilkiah the high priest, the priests second in rank, and the doorkeepers to remove from the temple of the LORD all the articles made for Baal, Asherah, and all the host of heaven. And he burned them outside Jerusalem in the fields of Kidron and carried their ashes to Bethel.

5Josiah also did away with the idolatrous priests ordained by the kings of Judah to burn incense on the high places of the cities of Judah and in the places all around Jerusalem—those who had burned incense to Baal, to the sun and moon, to the constellations, and to all the host of heaven. 6He brought the Asherah pole from the house of the LORD to the Kidron Valley outside Jerusalem, and there he burned it, ground it to powder, and threw its dust on the graves of the common people.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	2 Kings 21:3	For he rebuilt the high places that his father Hezekiah had destroyed, and he raised up altars for Baal. He made an Asherah pole, as King Ahab of Israel had done, and he worshiped and served all the host of heaven.
2	2 Kings 21:7	Manasseh even took the carved Asherah pole he had made and set it up in the temple, of which the LORD had said to David and his son Solomon, “In this temple and in Jerusalem, which I have chosen out of all the tribes of Israel, I will establish My Name forever.
3	2 Chronicles 33:3	For he rebuilt the high places that his father Hezekiah had torn down, and he raised up altars for the Baals and made Asherah poles. And he worshiped and served all the host of heaven.
4	2 Kings 25:18	The captain of the guard also took away Seraiah the chief priest, Zephaniah the priest of second rank, and the three doorkeepers.
5	1 Chronicles 24:4–19	Since more leaders were found among Eleazar’s descendants than those of Ithamar, they were divided accordingly. There were sixteen heads of families from the descendants of Eleazar and eight from the descendants of Ithamar. Thus they were divided by lot, for there were officers of the sanctuary and officers of God among both Eleazar’s and Ithamar’s descendants. The scribe, Shemaiah son of Nethanel, a Levite, recorded their names in the presence of the king and of the officers: Zadok the priest, Ahimelech son of Abiathar, and the heads of families of the priests and the Levites—one family being taken from Eleazar, and then one from Ithamar. The first lot fell to Jehoiarib, the second to Jedaiah, the third to Harim, the fourth to Seorim, the fifth to Malchijah, the sixth to Mijamin, the seventh to Hakkoz, the eighth to Abijah, the ninth to Jeshua, the tenth to Shecaniah, the eleventh to Eliashib, the twelfth to Jakim, the thirteenth to Huppah, the fourteenth to Jeshebeab, the fifteenth to Bilgah, the sixteenth to Immer, the seventeenth to Hezir, the eighteenth to Happizzez, the nineteenth to Pethahiah, the twentieth to Jehezkel, the twenty-first to Jachin, the twenty-second to Gamul, the twenty-third to Delaiah, and the twenty-fourth to Maaziah. This was their appointed order for service when they entered the house of the LORD, according to the regulations prescribed for them by their forefather Aaron, as the LORD, the God of Israel, had commanded him.
6	1 Kings 18:19	Now summon all Israel to meet me on Mount Carmel, along with the four hundred and fifty prophets of Baal and the four hundred prophets of Asherah who eat at Jezebel’s table.”
7	1 Kings 19:18	Nevertheless, I have reserved seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed to Baal and whose mouths have not kissed him.”
8	1 Kings 16:31	And as if it were not enough for him to walk in the sins of Jeroboam son of Nebat, he even married Jezebel the daughter of Ethbaal king of the Sidonians, and he then proceeded to serve and worship Baal.
9	Hosea 4:15	Though you prostitute yourself, O Israel, may Judah avoid such guilt! Do not journey to Gilgal, do not go up to Beth-aven, and do not swear on oath, ‘As surely as the LORD lives!’
10	Judges 2:13	for they forsook Him and served Baal and the Ashtoreths.

2 Kings 23:4 Summary

[This verse shows how King Josiah took bold action to remove idolatry from the temple and the city of Jerusalem, just like God had commanded in Deuteronomy 12:2-3. He got rid of all the objects used to worship false gods and burned them outside the city. This was a powerful way of showing that the people were committed to following God and keeping His commandments, as they had promised in 2 Kings 23:3. By doing this, King Josiah was able to restore the purity and holiness of the temple and the city, and set an example for the people to follow God's ways.]

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the articles made for Baal, Asherah, and all the host of heaven that were removed from the temple of the LORD?

These articles were likely idols, statues, or other objects used in the worship of false gods, as seen in Deuteronomy 12:3, where the Israelites were commanded to destroy such objects.

Why did King Josiah burn the articles outside Jerusalem in the fields of Kidron?

King Josiah burned the articles outside Jerusalem to symbolically purify the city and the temple, as seen in 2 Chronicles 34:3-7, where Josiah's reforms are described in more detail.

What is the significance of carrying the ashes to Bethel?

Carrying the ashes to Bethel may have been a way of desecrating the site where the idolatrous worship had taken place, as Bethel was a location where the Israelites had previously worshiped false gods, as mentioned in 1 Kings 12:28-33.

How does this verse relate to the covenant made in the previous verses?

This verse shows the practical application of the covenant made in 2 Kings 23:3, where King Josiah and the people promised to follow the LORD and keep His commandments, as seen in Exodus 19:5-6, where the Israelites first made a covenant with God.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways that I may be unknowingly worshiping false gods or prioritizing worldly things over God?
How can I, like King Josiah, take practical steps to remove idolatry and sin from my life?
What does it mean to 'burn' or get rid of the things that are hindering my relationship with God, and how can I do that in my daily life?
How can I, like the people in 2 Kings 23:3, enter into a covenant with God and commit to following Him with all my heart and soul?

Gill's Exposition on 2 Kings 23:4

And the king commanded Hilkiah the high priest, and the priests of the second order,.... Or the second course of the priests; the course of Jedaiah, 1 Chronicles 24:7 as some think; or rather, the

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Kings 23:4

And the king commanded Hilkiah the high priest, and the priests of the second order, and the keepers of the door, to bring forth out of the temple of the LORD all the vessels that were made for Baal,

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Kings 23:4

The priests of the second order; either those two who were next in degree to the high priest, and in case of his sickness were to manage his work; of whom see ; or the heads of the twentyfour courses which David had appointed, 1 Chronicles 24. The keepers of the door: See Poole "". To bring forth, i.e. to take care that they should be brought forth. For the grove, i.e. the image of the grove; of which See Poole ""; it being most frequent to call images by the names of the persons or things which they represent. In the fields of Kidron, i.e. adjoining to the brook of Kidron. Carried the ashes of them unto Beth-el; partly to show his abhorrency of them, and that he would not give the ashes of them a place in his kingdom; and partly to pollute and disgrace that place which had been the chief seat and throne of idolatry.

Trapp's Commentary on 2 Kings 23:4

2 Kings 23:4 And the king commanded Hilkiah the high priest, and the priests of the second order, and the keepers of the door, to bring forth out of the temple of the LORD all the vessels that were made for Baal, and for the grove, and for all the host of heaven: and he burned them without Jerusalem in the fields of Kidron, and carried the ashes of them unto Bethel.Ver. 4. And the priests of the second order.] Ithamar’ s race. And carried the ashes of them unto Bethel.] Called also Bethaven, because there had stood one of Jeroboam’ s golden calves: hither therefore this good king sent the ashes of those burnt idols and their trinkets to disgrace it, and that such wicked dust might not remain in Judah, that holy land, saith Cajetan.

Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Kings 23:4

(4) The priests of the second order.—Thenius is probably right in reading the singular, the priest of the second rank, i.e., the high priest’s deputy, after the Targum, unless the heads of the twenty-four classes be intended (“the chief priests” of the New Testament). (See also 2 Kings 25:18.) The keepers of the door (threshold).—The three chief warders (2 Kings 25:18.) Out of the temple—i.e., out of the principal chamber or holy place. For Baal . . . grove.—For the Baal . . . Ashçrah (so in 2 Kings 23:6-7; 2 Kings 23:15 also). Burned them.—According to the law of Deu 7:25; Deuteronomy 12:3. (Comp. 1 Chronicles 14:12.) Without Jerusalem.—As unclean. In the fields of Kidron.—North-east of the city, where the ravine expands considerably. (Comp. Jeremiah 31:40; also 1 Kings 15:13.) Carried the ashes of them unto Beth-el.—This is undoubtedly strange, and Chronicles says nothing about it. If the ashes of the vessels were sent to Beth-el, why not also those of the idols themselves, and the fragments of the altars (2 Kings 23:6-12)? The text appears to be corrupt.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Kings 23:4

Verse 4. The priests of the second order] These were probably such as supplied the place of the high priest when he was prevented: from fulfilling the functions of his office. So the Chaldee understood the place - the sagan of the high priests. But the words may refer to those of the second course or order established by David: though it does not appear that those orders were now in use, yet the distinction was continued even to the time of our Lord. We find the course of Abia, which was the eighth, mentioned Lu 1:5; where see the note. See Clarke on Lu 1:5. All the vessels] These had been used for idolatrous purposes; the king is now to destroy them; for although no longer used in this way, they might, if permitted to remain, be an incentive to idolatry at a future time.

Cambridge Bible on 2 Kings 23:4

4. priests of the second order] i.e. Those who were next in rank to the high priest (cf. Jeremiah 52:24). the keepers of the door] Who would be of the priests or Levites, and so could enter within the holy place. to bring forth … all the vessels that were made for Baal] We see therefore that the Baal worship had been fully established within the holy place. and for the grove] the Asherah. See note on 1 Kings 14:15. The same change is also made in the 6th verse. in the fields of Kidron] These were where the valley of the Kidron growing wider offered space for such a burning. We can again see that the destruction was in agreement with the commands in Deuteronomy 7:25; Deuteronomy 12:3. and carried the ashes of them unto Beth-el] That the refuse of all these objects of idolatry might be cast away in the place whence the first step was taken which had led to idolatry among the people of the Lord.

Barnes' Notes on 2 Kings 23:4

A parenthesis giving the earlier reforms of Josiah. 2 Kings 23:4 The priests of the second order - This is a new expression; and probably refers to the ordinary priests, called here “priests of the

Whedon's Commentary on 2 Kings 23:4

4. Priests of the second order — Those who ranked next in order to the high priest. The great body of the priesthood were of this order, but some among them were more distinguished than others. Compare 2 Kings 25:18.

Sermons on 2 Kings 23:4

	Sermon	Description
	(Men Who Met God): Elijah - "The Lord Leviticus Before Whom I Stand" by A.W. Tozer	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of finding reality and how sin often prevents us from experiencing it. He explores the inner conflict within humans, where the di
	Called to Be Christ-Like by David Wilkerson	In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a man who becomes jealous and angry when he sees others prospering financially while he struggles. The man declares that it is his
	Obtaining the Fullness of the Blessing of Christ by David Wilkerson	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of dealing with the things that hinder our relationship with God. He highlights how God desires to bless and use us, but ther
	Seven Thousand Did Not Bow by David Wilkerson	In this sermon, the preacher recounts the story of Elijah and the prophets of Baal. He describes how the prophets of Baal tried to awaken their god through their frenzy, but failed
	Revelation Overview Pt. 2 by Chuck Smith	In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the book of Revelation, specifically Revelation chapter 2. The key to understanding the book is found in Revelation 1:19, where it is instruc
	(1 Kings) the Work of Unknown Prophets by David Guzik	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of fulfilling the tasks and responsibilities that God has given us. He warns against the temptation of almost completing the
	A Still Small Voice by Charles Alexander	In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the wickedness that exists in the world and the mystery of God's ways. He acknowledges that even the best of men can be driven to despair b